I gave the owner deposit for the apartment in a coop building without his showing me the lease, obviously I did not sign the lease so far. Next day when I reminded him that he should not forgot to mention in the lease that I can sub-sublease the apartment if the situation would arrive. Initially he agreed but now finding himself sitting on my money he changed his mind and wants me to sign the lease whatever he write. He has also threaten me to keep partial or full amount of my deposit. He has given me the receipt for my deposit (but cleverly written that the deposit is non-refundable). However, I was told that it was illegal for him to take money from me before signin the lease. I was futher told that as a prospective tenant I have the right not to agree to the lease and in that case he has to return my deposit. I will greatly appreciate if someone could give me any information on this. I am new in this new country and city - just arrived 3 weeks agao what an experience!! Thanks.
<small>[ July 30, 2002, 01:47 PM: Message edited by: Feel Cheated ]</small>